RESUMO
Background: Accumulating evidences during the past decade suggest that erythropoietin (EPO) may have many beneficial actions other than on erythropoiesis because many non-hematopoietic cells, including kidney cells, also express EPO receptors. Objective: To summarize evidences of the renoprotective effects of EPO and review the possible mechanisms of renoprotection provided by EPO. Results: Experimental studies have demonstrated the renoprotective effects of EPO in acute as well as chronic renal injury models. These renoprotective actions are likely to be mediated by several mechanisms, either directly or indirectly. However, EPO therapy is also associated with adverse effects. Conclusion: EPO is potentially a novel renoprotective drug. Clinical use of EPO for renoprotection could not be beneficial if adverse side effects of EPO have been overcome.